Question 1

How can I start a business in USA as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

Foreign entrepreneurs can start a business in USA by registering an LLC or Corporation, obtaining necessary licenses, and opening a US business bank account. Startup Business Bureau provides complete end-to-end consulting services to help international investors launch their business in USA hassle-free.

Question 2

What is E2 Visa and who can apply for it?

Accepted Answer

E2 Treaty Investor Visa allows citizens of treaty countries to live and work in the USA by investing in a US business. Applicants must make a substantial investment in a bona fide enterprise. Startup Business Bureau has a 95% E2 Visa approval rate with 500+ visas approved.

Question 3

How much investment is required for E2 Visa?

Accepted Answer

There is no fixed minimum investment amount for E2 Visa, but the investment must be substantial and sufficient to ensure the successful operation of the business. Typically investors start from $50,000 to $200,000 depending on the business type.

Question 4

What is the difference between E1 and E2 Visa?

Accepted Answer

E1 Visa is for treaty traders who conduct substantial trade between USA and their home country. E2 Visa is for treaty investors who invest capital in a US business. Startup Business Bureau provides consulting for both E1 and E2 visa programs.

Question 5

How long does it take to register a company in USA?

Accepted Answer

Company registration in USA typically takes 1 to 5 business days for an LLC and 1 to 2 weeks for a Corporation depending on the state. Startup Business Bureau handles the entire registration process for international clients.

Question 6

What are the best businesses to buy in USA for E2 Visa?

Accepted Answer

Best businesses for E2 Visa include franchise businesses, retail stores, service industry businesses, food and beverage outlets, and eCommerce businesses. Startup Business Bureau offers a curated list of E2 Visa qualifying businesses across 30+ US states.

Question 7

What does a business consulting firm do?

Accepted Answer

A business consulting firm helps entrepreneurs and investors plan, launch, grow, and scale their businesses. Startup Business Bureau provides services including business plan development, company registration, mergers and acquisitions, digital transformation, and E2 Visa consulting.

Question 8

How can I buy a business in USA from abroad?

Accepted Answer

International investors can buy a business in USA by working with a licensed business broker or consulting firm. Startup Business Bureau assists foreign buyers in finding, evaluating, negotiating, and completing business acquisitions across the USA.

Question 9

What is the cost of business consulting services in USA?

Accepted Answer

Business consulting fees vary depending on the scope of services required. Startup Business Bureau offers a free no-obligation consultation to discuss your business goals and provide a customized fee structure. Call +1-(888)-991-1786 or visit startupbusinessbureau.com.

Question 10

Is Startup Business Bureau a legitimate consulting firm?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Startup Business Bureau is a multi-award winning international business consulting firm based in Chantilly, Virginia USA. It is a member of the US Chamber of Commerce, IBBA, Investment Migration Council, and has received multiple management consulting awards since 2019.

Question 11

What documents are necessary for an E2 visa?

Accepted Answer

● ID Card
● Passport
● Bank Details
● Justification of your funds (money trial)

Question 12

How will the whole E2 Visa process work?

Accepted Answer

Decide the nature of business to start or acquire.
Share basic personal and financial documents for initial evaluation.
Sign the service agreement and pay the initial service fee.
Complete company & tax registration and open a business bank account.
Transfer the investment amount into your US business bank account.
Business setup or acquisition.
Connect with the seller or franchisor to begin negotiations or start the business registration process with our consultant.
Conduct market research and prepare a solid business plan.
Engage and appoint an immigration attorney.
Prepare and submit the visa application.
Attend a business interview at the US Embassy.
Be prepared for an RFE (Request for Evidence) if required.
Visa issued.
Travel to the USA and manage your business.

Question 13

What is the minimum amount to get an E2 investor visa?

Accepted Answer

The US doesn't specify a fixed investment amount for an E-2 Visa — it simply requires a "substantial" amount. This means your investment should be significant enough to run a real, viable business and reflect your genuine commitment to it.

Question 14

Are any level of education and language tests required for an E2 investor visa?

Accepted Answer

Good news — the E-2 Visa has no education or language test requirements. What truly matters is your investment amount and your ability to run a successful business in the US. As long as your investment is substantial and you're committed to creating jobs and growing your business, you're on the right track.

Question 15

Can my spouse and kids travel with me? & What kind of benefits will my spouse and children get?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can travel with you on an E-2 Visa. Your spouse is eligible to apply for work authorization and can work for any employer or even start their own business. Your children can enroll in public or private schools without needing a separate student visa — giving your whole family the opportunity to thrive in the US alongside you.

Question 16

Can I put money in my bank or invest in a real estate property in the USA for the visa?

Accepted Answer

Investment must be in an active business, and a major portion of the whole investment budget must be executed at a potential risk.

Question 17

How do I start or find a business when I am not in the USA?

Accepted Answer

We, as business consultants and your representatives, can negotiate with the seller or create a new business from scratch on your behalf by having a power of attorney (PoA).

Question 18

What kind of business do I need to start?

Accepted Answer

To qualify for an E-2 Visa, your business must be a real, active enterprise — not a passive investment. It should generate income, create jobs for US workers, and contribute to the economy. Your investment must be substantial relative to the total cost of the business, and the business itself must have the potential to grow beyond just supporting you. Choosing an industry that aligns with your skills and experience is key to long-term success.

Question 19

Should I go for a start-up or buy an existing business to be eligible for an e2 investor visa?

Accepted Answer

Starting a new business gives you the freedom to build something entirely your own, though it takes time to establish customers and revenue. Buying an existing business, on the other hand, offers a faster path — with an already operational setup, existing customers, and immediate economic contribution. Both options can lead to a successful E-2 Visa application. The right choice simply depends on your experience, goals, and risk tolerance.

Question 20

Can I buy a franchise of an established business for an e2 investor visa?

Accepted Answer

Buying a franchise means investing in a proven business model with an established brand, built-in customer base, and ongoing support from the franchisor including training, marketing, and operational guidance. This reduces the risks of starting from scratch and makes it easier to demonstrate to immigration authorities that your investment will contribute to the US economy. For E-2 Visa applicants, a franchise can be a smart and strategic choice.

Question 21

How would I make a payment to the business seller?

Accepted Answer

There are normally 2 ways of making the seller payment:
1. If the seller only needs a cash payment (via Bank Transfer), then you must make the necessary transfer from your personal or business bank account through the official banking channel.
2. If the seller agrees, then you can make the payment through an escrow account (third party bank guarantee) with a condition of visa approval.

Question 22

How much are the total expenses?

Accepted Answer

Other than your business capital investment, there will be the below expenses for your E2 visa application.
1. Consultant Fee
2. Attorney Fee
3. Business & Tax Registration
4. Business Plan and Financial Feasibility
5. Petition Filing Fee

Question 23

What's the best business for the E-2 visa?

Accepted Answer

Choosing the right business for your E-2 Visa means finding a venture that fits your budget, meets visa requirements, and has growth potential. Popular low-overhead options include franchises ($50,000–$100,000), service-based businesses like cleaning or consulting (from $50,000), online retail stores, and food trucks ($50,000–$150,000).

Question 24

How do you know the factors that make a business good for an E-2 visa application?

Accepted Answer

Regardless of industry, a qualifying E-2 business must be active, non-marginal, and capable of generating income beyond just supporting the investor. Key requirements include a substantial investment covering startup costs, a solid business plan projecting growth and job creation, and proof of active operations. You must also own at least 50% of the business and maintain clear control over decision-making, while demonstrating a positive impact on the US economy.

Question 25

Can I start a home-based business?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can run a home-based business on an E-2 Visa, as long as it meets the core requirements — a substantial investment, active operations, and the potential to generate more than marginal income. It should be a legitimate business, not a passive investment, and ideally create jobs for US workers. A strong business plan outlining growth and profitability will significantly support your application.

Question 26

Do I need to hire employees immediately?

Accepted Answer

You don’t need to hire employees immediately for your E-2 business, but demonstrating the potential to hire U.S. workers in the near future strengthens your application. While the E-2 visa doesn’t have a strict requirement for the number of employees or when to hire them, a business that only supports the investor and their family might be viewed as marginal, which could hurt your chances.

Question 27

What kind of experience or background do I need to start my own business in the US?

Accepted Answer

No specific degree or formal business background is required for an E-2 Visa. What matters most is your ability to make a substantial investment and actively operate a real, viable business. You'll need a solid business plan, sufficient startup capital, and a clear demonstration that your investment is at risk and committed to the business. Prior business experience isn't mandatory, but being actively involved in daily operations and decision-making is essential.

Question 28

Can I start a low-budget business to be eligible for an e2 investor visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can start a low-budget business for an E-2 Visa, but the investment must still be substantial relative to your business type. There's no fixed minimum, but it must fully fund the business and cover startup and operating costs. The business cannot be marginal — it must generate enough income to support your family or create jobs for US workers. Your funds must also be "at risk" and committed to the business before applying, backed by a strong business plan showing growth and profitability.

Question 29

Will my e-commerce business be eligible for an E2 investor visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, an e-commerce business can qualify for an E-2 Visa, as long as it meets the core requirements. Your investment must be substantial enough to make the business fully operational — covering website development, inventory, marketing, and operational expenses. The business must also be non-marginal, meaning it should generate enough income to support you or create jobs for US workers.

Question 30

Can I start my business with a partner so that both of us can get an E2 investor visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can start a business with a partner for an E-2 Visa. Both partners can qualify as investors if they are from a treaty country and each makes a substantial investment, with both actively involved in running the business. Alternatively, one partner can be the primary investor while the other applies as an essential employee in a critical role. In either case, the business must meet all E-2 requirements, including generating sufficient revenue or creating jobs for US workers.

Question 31

Minimum investment and requirements for a partnership-based business for an investor visa?

Accepted Answer

There's no fixed minimum investment for an E-2 Visa partnership, but the combined investment must be substantial enough to make the business fully operational. Investments typically range from $100,000 to $150,000 or more depending on the industry, though lower amounts may be accepted if justified by the business model. Each partner can contribute their share, or one can be the primary investor while the other applies as an essential employee.

Question 32

Should I go for a visa from the US Embassy from my home country or a status change after B1/B2?

Accepted Answer

If you're in the US on a B1/B2 visa, you have two options. You can change your status to E-2 from within the US, which lets you stay and operate your business without leaving — but it doesn't give you an actual visa, so you'll need embassy stamping before re-entering if you travel. Alternatively, you can apply at a US embassy in your home country to get the actual E-2 visa in your passport, allowing free entry and exit. If you plan to stay long-term without traveling, a status change is simpler. If international travel matters, go with the embassy route.

Question 33

Can I purchase a franchise to be eligible for an e2 visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, purchasing a franchise can qualify you for an E-2 Visa. Franchises are often a strong choice as they come with established systems, brand recognition, and clear investment structures. Your investment must be substantial, fully committed to the business, and sufficient to cover setup, operations, and growth. You'll also need a solid business plan showing profitability and potential job creation, along with active involvement in running the franchise.

Question 34

What is the success ratio of e2 investor visas worldwide?

Accepted Answer

The E-2 Visa has a strong global approval rate of 80–85%, and at Startup Business Bureau, we're proud to maintain a 98% approval rate since our founding. The E-2 is one of the most accessible investor visas available — rejections are rare and typically only occur due to prior legal violations or document authenticity concerns.

Question 35

What is the petition process timeline?

Accepted Answer

The E-2 Visa process typically takes 1–3 months. Your attorney will file the application at a US Consulate abroad or with the Immigration Agency within the US. We monitor your case and keep you informed throughout.
Factors influencing success:

Strong business plan
Legitimate investment
Non-marginal business
Complete documentation

Common mistakes when visiting the US:

Leasing a house
Enrolling children in school
Engaging in work activities

Question 36

Why do these mistakes affect E2 applications?

Accepted Answer

While visiting the US on a B-1, ESTA, or visitor visa, you are strictly prohibited from working, leasing a property, or enrolling children in school. Any such activity is a legal violation and can lead to an immediate E-2 Visa rejection. Always stay within your permitted visit period and avoid any unauthorized activities during your stay.

Question 37

What about working in my own business with a visit visa?

Accepted Answer

If you are visiting the U.S. with a B-1 B-2 visa, ESTA visa waiver, or as a visitor, you cannot work anywhere, even within your own business. You are only limited to investment or business set-up activities. You must obtain the actual E2 investor visa, which allows you to actually work within your own business and live in the U.S.

Question 38

Difference between working in your own business or doing investment/business set-up activities?

Accepted Answer

As a visitor in the US, you can engage in business setup activities but not actual work operations. Managing staff, serving customers, or handling day-to-day tasks is considered active employment and is not permitted.
Permitted business setup activities as a visitor:

Retain legal counsel
Attend meetings and conferences
Negotiate contracts
Open a business bank account
Lease office space
Recruit US employees
Acquire a US business for E-2 purposes

Question 39

How can I work in my own business?

Accepted Answer

Once your investment and business setup are complete, you’ll submit your E-2 Investor Visa application along with your business plan. Upon approval and stamp/receipt (in case of a status change) of the E-2 Visa, you’ll be authorized to actively manage and work within your business.

Question 40

What should the main applicant expect during the E-2 Visa interview?

Accepted Answer

The consular officer will assess the legitimacy, viability, and job-creating potential of your business, so be thoroughly prepared.
Common interview questions:

What is the nature of your business?
How much have you invested so far?
What is the source of your funds?
How many employees will you hire?
What are your projected revenues over 5 years?
What is your role in the business?
Who is your target market?

Tips for success:

Know your business plan inside out
Stay confident and direct
Bring all documents in organized, labeled folders
Be truthful and concise — don't exaggerate

Question 41

Will the spouse also be interviewed, and what questions might be asked?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the spouse must attend the interview but won't be questioned about the business. Their questions typically cover personal background, marital status, education, travel history, and plans in the US.

Question 42

Are children interviewed as part of the E-2 visa process?

Accepted Answer

No, children under 21 are not interviewed. However, they must be physically present at the consular interview with the main applicant and spouse. Officers may visually confirm their identity but do not question minors, this part of the process is purely procedural.

Question 43

What is the typical timeline for the E-2 visa process?

Accepted Answer

Consular Processing (Outside US):

Business setup & investment: 30–90 days
Document compilation & business plan: 15–30 days
Embassy appointment: 2–12 weeks
Visa issuance after approval: 5–10 business days

Change of Status (Inside US):

USCIS Form I-129 processing: 3–6 months
Premium processing (optional): 15 business days

Question 44

Do I need to file a DS-160 form for each dependent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every individual applying for a visa, including spouse and children, must file a separate DS-160 form. While the primary applicant’s DS-160 will be used to book the interview appointment, dependent forms must be submitted individually and attached to the same visa case.

Question 45

What happens after the E-2 visa is approved? Is there a path to a green card?

Accepted Answer

The E-2 is a non-immigrant visa and doesn't directly lead to a green card, but many investors use it as a stepping stone to permanent residency.
Common post-E-2 pathways:

EB-5 Visa: Invest $800K–$1M and create 10 jobs for permanent residency
EB-2 NIW: For business owners making a significant impact in national interest sectors
EB-1C: For those expanding globally and meeting executive transfer criteria
Marriage or family-based green card

Question 46

Can I prepare my own E-2 petition (DIY) and then hire a professional for review only?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's possible but risky. A professional review may uncover irreversible mistakes — such as improper ownership structure or premature financial commitments — that could jeopardize your entire application and investment.
Pro Tip: Always consult a professional before taking any irrevocable steps like signing leases, transferring funds, or finalizing partnerships.

Question 47

Is a smoke and vape shop a good business for the E-2 visa?

Accepted Answer

Smoke and vape shops are legally risky. While some E-2 applicants have succeeded with them, many consulates are reluctant due to regulatory concerns. If you choose this path, ensure strict compliance with local laws, zoning regulations, and federal restrictions. It’s not a strong first-choice business for a clean E-2 application.

Question 48

Can I buy a townhouse for $130,000 in cash and rent it out as an E-2 business?

Accepted Answer

No, rental real estate, especially passive investments like townhouses, does not qualify for the E-2 visa. USCIS requires an “active” business that involves direct development, direction, and day-to-day engagement. Passive income, like rental properties, doesn’t meet E-2’s operational or marginality standards.

Question 49

Should I focus on my E-2 business showing profits or tax profits?

Accepted Answer

This is a critical distinction. Always ensure your business is showing strong operational profits and growth. If your business appears profitable on paper but tax filings show continuous losses or write-offs, your E-2 renewal may be denied. Plan with your CPA to ensure that tax optimization doesn't backfire at immigration review.

Question 50

Can lawyer fees be counted toward E-2 investment?

Accepted Answer

USCIS may accept attorney fees as part of your startup expenses, but only in moderation. If your lawyer charges $10,000 and your total investment is $100,000, that’s reasonable. But if your legal fees are $20,000 on a $50,000 investment, an examiner may argue that not enough was actually invested in building the business.

Question 51

What’s the difference in budgeting for change of status and consular processing?

Accepted Answer

Consular Processing (Outside US):

DS-160 visa fee: $205 per person
Travel and accommodation required for interview
Wait times vary by location
Entire family must attend

Change of Status (Inside US):

Form I-129 fee: $460
Premium processing (optional): $2,805
Only the applicant's status changes — spouse and children are not included
May complicate future consular applications for the family

Question 52

Can I change status in the U.S. first and bring my family later?

Accepted Answer

This route is risky. When you change status from within the U.S., your visa is not stamped. Your dependents must apply at the consulate later, and there's no guarantee they will be approved. Many consulates scrutinize such split applications harshly. If family unity is a priority, apply together via consular processing.

Question 53

Do I need to submit a DS-160 for each dependent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every applicant, including spouse and children, must submit individual DS-160 forms. Only one appointment will be scheduled for the family, but each form must be completed and submitted independently.

Question 54

What is the E-2 visa application or renewal fee?

Accepted Answer

The exact fee changes periodically. For the most accurate, up-to-date numbers, always check the official USCIS fee schedule.

Question 55

Can the E-2 spouse study in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The spouse of an E-2 visa holder can study part-time or full-time without needing an F-1 student visa.

Question 56

Can the E-2 visa holder themselves study in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the E-2 investor may study part-time. However, your primary purpose must remain the development and direction of your business.

Question 57

Can an E-2 investor own multiple businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only the E-2-approved business will qualify you for your visa. If you own other businesses, they won’t be protected under your E-2 visa. You may need to apply for separate visas or change status depending on how the second business functions.

Question	Answer
Do you need a consultant	Yes if your business feels stuck
Consultant pricing	Usually 150 to 400 per hour
Project cost	Around 5k to 40k
How long projects take	Usually 4 to 12 weeks
Free business help in Virginia	Virginia SBDC
Need a permit to run a consulting firm	Yes in most cases

Problem	Result Without Help
Bad pricing	Lost revenue
Weak marketing	No customers
Poor operations	Wasted time and money
Hiring mistakes	High employee turnover
No growth plan	Business stays stuck

Region	Main Industries
Northern Virginia	Tech government contracting
Richmond	Finance law manufacturing
Virginia Beach	Tourism shipping defense
Charlottesville	Biotech education
Southwest Virginia	Healthcare logistics

Problem	Consultant Solution
No direction	Creates strategy plan
Cash flow issues	Finds money leaks
Staff quitting	Improves hiring
Weak marketing	Builds customer strategy
Burnout	Improves systems

Type	Price Range
Hourly consulting	150 to 400 per hour
Daily consulting	1000 to 4000
Project based	5000 to 40000
Monthly retainer	3000 to 15000

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